On June 28, 2023, three members of the University of Waterloo community were violently attacked in a horrific act that targeted gender expression and identity.
It is unimaginable that in today’s era this malicious form of hate exists in some people’s hearts.
A transcript of President Goel's remarks from the June 29, 2023 Community Gathering that took place in the Arts Quad is below.
Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you for gathering here with us today.
June is National Indigenous History Month, and on the 21st—the summer solstice—we mark National Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
For some Indigenous Peoples, it’s a day to gather, celebrate the diversity of Indigenous Peoples, reflect on recent achievements and dream for the future. It’s also a chance to catch up with friends and family while enjoying an extra-long day of traditional food, music, conversation and games. First and foremost, I wish those celebrating a fun and relaxing day to remember.
There is a vibrancy and a sense of excitement that flows across our campus in the spring as we prepare to welcome our graduating students for convocation. It is our honour to participate in fourteen ceremonies this week.
We are honoured to begin a new tradition this year with the inclusion of an Eagle Staff to our convocation ceremonies. The staff was presented to the University in March, and reflects the wisdom, strength, and honour of those that carry it in representation of Nations across Turtle Island.
Each year in June, Pride Month celebrates the diversity, history, contributions, and achievements of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, while also raising awareness about further progress needed for equity and justice. We acknowledge that we have a lot more work to do on campus to create a safe and just environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff and faculty, and we are committed to that work.
Universities are currently in the national security spotlight, but recent coverage has forgotten the unique position that institutions are in when it comes to protecting Canada’s national interests.
Canada’s adoption of the latest information technology in the healthcare system is a hot button issue, and the stakes
As this year’s recipient of the McNaught-Taillon Leadership Award, Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Waterloo, is being recognized for his outstanding individual contributions to Canadian health care through exemplary leadership and mentorship in the advancement of health policy, health information and health informatics.
Asian Heritage Month offers us the opportunity to pay special attention to the vital roles our community members of Asian heritage play in the success of our institution, while also recognizing the important work needed to eliminate anti-Asian racism, and all forms of racism, on our campuses.
On International Trans Day of Visibility, we recognize and celebrate Two-Spirit, Trans, Non-Binary, and Gender Non-Conforming people, who are integral and valued members of our campus community. We celebrate trans students, faculty and staff and all they contribute. Today, we seek to add visibility to their voices, experiences and scholarship.